CMS proposes changes to survey process

CMS has proposed to revise the survey, certification, and enforcement procedures related to CMS oversight of national accreditation organizations (The Joint Commission, DNV Healthcare, and the Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program or HFAP). These revisions would implement certain provisions under the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA).

The proposed revisions would also, according to the CMS announcement, clarify and strengthen our oversight of accreditation organizations that apply for, and are granted, recognition and approval of an accreditation program in accordance with the Social Security Act.

The comment period for the proposed rule, which was originally intended to end on June 4, 2013, is extended to July 5, 2013.

The proposed rule can be found in the Federal Register here, or by clicking the link below: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-05-24/html/2013-12462.htm